You Hurt My Feelings

Another winner from Nicole Holofcener, You Hurt My Feelings details the strife that ensues between a happily married couple (Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ Beth and Tobias Menzies’ Don) after she overhears him disparaging her latest book. Filmmaker Holofcener, armed with her own screenplay, delivers a deliberately-paced yet persistently engaging effort that benefits from its first-class performances, as both Louis-Dreyfus and Menzies turn in compelling, lived-in work that goes a long way towards cultivating a predominantly engrossing atmosphere – with this vibe undoubtedly heightened by the equally impressive performances from a top-notch supporting cast that includes Michaela Watkins, David Cross, and Jeannie Berlin. And while the movie is periodically just a little too low-key for its own good, You Hurt My Feelings has been peppered with memorable moments that effectively enhance and elevate the proceedings on a recurring basis – with, for example, Don’s ongoing encounters with his various patients far more entertaining than one might’ve anticipated. It’s ultimately clear, though, that You Hurt My Feelings is at its best when focused on the central characters’ ingratiating exploits and dealings together, as Holofcener’s long-established gift for exploring the ins and outs of long (and short) term relationships proves impossible to resist – with the end result a superb endeavor from one of Hollywood’s most underrated filmmakers.

***1/2 out of ****